Superman is gearing up to introduce a new, more comic-accurate Lex Luthor, portrayed by Nicholas Hoult, set to go toe-to-toe with David Corenswet as Clark Kent in the upcoming DC Universe installment. Under the direction of James Gunn, the film also showcases a stellar cast including Rachel Brosnahan, Isabela Merced, Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, Nathan Fillion, Maria Gabriela de Faria, Sara Sampaio, Skyler Gisondo, and Wendell Pierce. While numerous DC heroes and villains are scheduled to appear, Gunn emphasizes that the film focuses centrally on the dynamic trio of Lex, Clark, and Lois Lane.
In anticipation of the film’s release, the official Superman Instagram shared an eye-catching clip compilation featuring Lex Luthor. The accompanying caption states:
Lex knows how to make being bad look good. #Superman – only in theaters July 11. Get tickets now: link in bio.
This dynamic video opens with Superman commenting, “Your obsession with me is getting a little creepy.” To which Lex retorts, “Don’t worry. Tall, dark, and Martian isn’t my type.” The editing style has a modern flair reminiscent of a fancam, showcasing various angles of Lex that convey either suave charisma or foreboding menace.
Lex’s Obsession With Clark Comes To A Head
Over the years, Lex Luthor has been depicted through various media formats, yet there’s one trait that remains unwaveringâ€â€his deep-seated envy of Superman’s abilities. Despite being affluent, charming, and highly intelligent, Lex craves more than wealth; he seeks power. His disdain for a visitor from another planet becoming the world’s esteemed hero is palpable. Hoult elaborated on Lex’s viewpoint: “If someone had ultimate power and the ability to do anything, then what happens when what he does doesn’t align with everyone’s belief of what is right?“
As Hoult molds his interpretation of the character, he draws inspiration from Gene Hackman’s iconic portrayal in Superman: The Movie and Michael Rosenbaum’s iteration in Smallville. Though each performance takes a distinct pathâ€â€Hackman with his campy charm and Rosenbaum adopting a more edgy personaâ€â€they share a foundation of simmering jealousy towards Clark. Hoult’s acknowledgment of both actors as influences signals that Lex’s envy of Superman’s power will be a defining characteristic of his portrayal.
This Lex-centric promotional approach underlines the multifaceted strategy DC Studios is adopting to market Superman. Aiming particularly at a younger audience familiar with fan edits on platforms like TikTok, this video encapsulates the evolving trends in movie promotion.
Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor Promises A New Twist On An Old Classic
By channeling elements from both Hackman and Rosenbaum, Hoult appears poised to find a middle ground between a smug, campy Lex and a more contemporary, cold businessman. Additionally, Gunn has mentioned that Superman draws themes from the acclaimed All-Star Superman comic run, which features an equally arrogant yet vulnerable Lex. Merging these influences, Hoult’s take on Lex is shaping up to be a landmark performance not only for the actor but for the character itself.
As the release date approaches on July 11, 2025, anticipation continues to build for this fresh chapter in the DC Universe, promising a compelling exploration of one of comic histories’ most lauded rivalries.